A batch of soft toy bunnies found on sale on Anglesey have been withdrawn by the retailer after tests by officers of the Isle of Anglesey County Council Trading Standards found that they failed essential safety requirements because the plastic eyes detached too easily.
The Council prosecuted the company under Toy Safety Regulations, and at a hearing at Holyhead Magistrates’ Court on the 8th July 2010, Junction Eighteen Ltd were fined £1,500 and ordered to pay £950 costs. The company had pleaded guilty to supplying the toys which failed to satisfy the essential safety requirements. This particular batch of toys was withdrawn by the retailer as soon as it was warned by the Council about the potential danger.
The soft toy in question was bought at a shop on Anglesey as part of the Isle of Anglesey County Council Trading Standards division’s ongoing sampling process. Laboratory tests found that eyes attached to the toys detached too easily when a force was applied. If hard plastic features on soft toys are easily detached, they have the potential to jeopardise the health of children by causing a choking hazard. These toys were meant to be used by young children and toddlers. Young children are especially prone to this sort of choking hazard.
Glynwyn Owen, Senior Enforcement Officer with Isle of Anglesey County Council said “We hope this prosecution sends out a clear message to manufacturers and importers that they must ensure their products comply with legislation. The failure of these toys to meet the safety requirements caused grave concern, particularly as toddlers explore their world by putting things in their mouths.”
The Isle of Anglesey Trading Standards routinely test consumer products to make sure they conform to safety standards, and over the past twelve months the sampling has ranged from soft toys to electrical goods and cosmetics.
Councillor John Chorlton, portfolio holder for Planning and the Environment added, “Our Trading Standards division work tirelessly to protect the public and once again, I congratulate them on their efforts in this case.”
